What is first-person consent?
First-person consent makes your decision to be an organ/tissue donor legally binding. Additional witnesses or family consent is no longer required to carry out your wishes in the event of your death. In the event a person has not had the opportunity to join the first-person consent registry, or is under the age of 18, next-of kin will still be approached for consent.
I've never heard of first-person consent. Is this new?
Yes. First-Person Consent legislation was signed into law in June 2005 and becomes effective Jan. 1, 2006. More than 40 other states have passed similar legislation, sometimes called "donor rights" legislation.
Why is the law being changed?
The new law provides an opportunity to save more lives. Organ donation is expected to increase by at least 10 percent and provide about 100 additional organs for transplant each year.
The law also ensures that your wishes to be an organ/tissue donor will be honored. Many Illinoisans who sign donor cards are unaware that their families still must give consent for donation to take place.
When I agree to first-person consent, will my family still be involved?
Yes. Upon your death, transplant coordinators explain the donation process to your family, answer questions and provide additional support. They will ask for a current medical/social history about you to help them determine which organs and tissues may be transplanted according to your wishes. They also will ask your family whether they wish to receive follow-up information after the donation, such as general information about recipients. They will continue to provide ongoing programs and services for families of donors for as long as they wish.
So what will change for my family under the First-Person Consent Law?
When you join the new Illinois First-Person Consent Organ/Tissue Donor Registry, you give full legal consent to donate your organs and tissue at the time of your death. Additional witnesses or family consent is no longer required to carry out your wishes.
Is there an age restriction for joining the registry?
Yes. Unfortunately, in Illinois persons under age 18 cannot legally enter into a contract; therefore, your family must give consent before donation can occur. Please discuss your wishes to be an organ/tissue donor with your family so in the event of your death your wishes will be honored.
When you turn 18, please join the registry by visiting www.LifeGoesOn.com, calling 800-210-2106, or visiting your local Secretary of State facility.
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